The tech industry is pushing the Government to argue for smart watches to be exempt from new European Union rules that will require products to be fitted with easily replaceable batteries.
Correspondence shows the lobbying association representing the tech sector has warned that Brussels regulations, due to kick in early next year, could lead to delays rolling out the latest gadgets in Europe.
In an April 1st letter, seen by The Irish Times, Technology Ireland, which represents the industry, criticised the “disproportionate” scope of the new rules.
The lobby group told Minister for Climate Darragh O’Brien that forced design changes could result in products being developed for the European market that were “bulkier, heavier, less waterproof” and had a shorter battery life.
The new EU environmental regulations stipulate that from early next year tech products sold in Europe should be made so that portable batteries are easy for customers to remove and replace.
